03-07-2013, 05:10 PM
DOVER - The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife is advising anglers to expect a reduced fish population in Records Pond, a 92-acre impoundment in Laurel that typically plays host to several small bass fishing tournaments each year and is popular with anglers seeking a variety of fish species.
Records Pond was drawn down to stream level as part of protective measures in advance of Hurricane Sandy last October. Although the pond was immediately allowed to refill, a large portion of its fish population washed into Broad Creek when the pond was drawn down.
In November, Fisheries staff stocked 4,800 advanced bluegill fingerlings and 2,300 golden shiner to reestablish a forage base. Biologists will survey the pond this summer to evaluate the success of these stockings. Based on these results, it is anticipated that largemouth bass fingerlings will be stocked in 2013 to get this popular fishery back in balance.
In the meantime, anglers are encouraged to take advantage of some of the state's other public fishing access areas. Good fishing spots for largemouth bass, pickerel, crappie and bluegill in the Laurel area include the Division of Fish and Wildlife's Chipman and Horsey ponds, both of which offer boat ramps and shore fishing.
Also, Trap Pond State Park offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities including a boat ramp for small motorized boats, non-motorized boat rentals and fishing for largemouth bass, pickerel, crappie and bluegill.
For more information on fishing and boating areas, check out the 2013 Delaware Fishing Guide, available from license dealers statewide or online at www.fw.delaware.gov.
Records Pond was drawn down to stream level as part of protective measures in advance of Hurricane Sandy last October. Although the pond was immediately allowed to refill, a large portion of its fish population washed into Broad Creek when the pond was drawn down.
In November, Fisheries staff stocked 4,800 advanced bluegill fingerlings and 2,300 golden shiner to reestablish a forage base. Biologists will survey the pond this summer to evaluate the success of these stockings. Based on these results, it is anticipated that largemouth bass fingerlings will be stocked in 2013 to get this popular fishery back in balance.
In the meantime, anglers are encouraged to take advantage of some of the state's other public fishing access areas. Good fishing spots for largemouth bass, pickerel, crappie and bluegill in the Laurel area include the Division of Fish and Wildlife's Chipman and Horsey ponds, both of which offer boat ramps and shore fishing.
Also, Trap Pond State Park offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities including a boat ramp for small motorized boats, non-motorized boat rentals and fishing for largemouth bass, pickerel, crappie and bluegill.
For more information on fishing and boating areas, check out the 2013 Delaware Fishing Guide, available from license dealers statewide or online at www.fw.delaware.gov.